Apothecary

Rose.

Rosa spp.

Also known as Red Rose, Damask Rose, Rosa Canina (Dog Rose)

ElementWaterPlanetVenusZodiacLibra, TaurusChakraHeart

The quintessential flower of love magic in every Western tradition — sacred to Aphrodite, to Venus, to Isis, to Mary. Red for passion, pink for romance, white for purity; whatever the colour, rose is the truest of all the love-bringing herbs.

Rose — botanical illustration

Correspondences

Element

Water

Planet

Venus

Zodiac

Libra, Taurus

Chakra

Heart

Parts Used

Petals, hips, thorns

Harvest

Summer (petals)

Origin

Gardens worldwide

Moon Phases

Waxing

Practice

Magical Properties

Love, healing, protection, psychic power, luck, beauty

The quintessential herb of love magic. Red rose petals scattered on a lover's path. Rose water for love and beauty rituals. Pink roses for gentle, romantic love. White roses for purity and new beginnings.

Mundane

Mundane Uses

Rose hips rich in vitamin C. Rose water used as skin tonic. Rose petal tea for anxiety.

Devotion

Deity Associations

Aphrodite, Venus, Isis, Mary

History

Folklore & History

The rose was sacred to Aphrodite in ancient Greece. In Rome, the phrase sub rosa indicated something secret — roses were hung in meeting halls to indicate confidentiality.

Safety

Safety Notes

Generally safe. Rose hips in large doses can be mildly laxative.

This information is provided for educational and magical reference only. Always consult a qualified practitioner before using herbs medicinally.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Rose used for in witchcraft?

Rose is traditionally used in workings for love, healing, protection, psychic power, luck, beauty. The quintessential herb of love magic.

What element is Rose associated with?

Rose is associated with the Water element and the sign of Libra, Taurus, and resonates with the Heart chakra.

What planet rules Rose?

Rose is ruled by Venus. In the classical planetary system, this gives the herb its characteristic energetic signature and indicates which workings it most readily amplifies and which planetary hours best suit it.

Is Rose safe to use?

Some care is required when working with Rose. Generally safe. Rose hips in large doses can be mildly laxative. The information here is provided for educational and magical reference only — always consult a qualified practitioner before using any herb medicinally.

In Your Practice

Track your work with Rose.

Record spells, rituals, and observations in your private digital grimoire.

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More Water Herbs

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